I understand what you're getting at here - the request/requirement to jump through hoops. But I don't think it's unreasonable for a potential employer to want

I understand what you're getting at here - the request/requirement to jump through hoops. But I don't think it's unreasonable for a potential employer to want to gauge technical ability, especially given the amount of people who graduate from degree factories without any ability to actually code or do any sort of technical work. Usually these positions, and this field in general, pay well so I would think that people would want to go the extra mile to get the job. Also, you need to remember that employers take a risk with every hire. The cost of hiring and onboarding (and firing, too) are not insignificant. If I was involved in the hiring process and someone expected to get paid as a contractor for their time spent as part of the interview process, I would not be calling that person back. If, however, a person expressed their displeasure at the amount of time it would take to complete the request given their current workload and schedule, I would probably be willing to work with them and try to figure out some middle ground that would serve both sides reasonably well. Of course, you also always have the ability to tell them that you think it's too much to request as part of the interview process and do not wish to continue the interview process as it would be a waste of everyone's time. Given the hiring risk(s) and costs associated with it, I think it's extremely distasteful to seek to be paid as part of that process.